technical director for the Isabelle Reader Theatre, was laid off after his position was terminated, sparking dozens of comments from readers on the loss to the community.

RCMP Cst. Scott Rothermel climbed through a broken window into a burning building on July 20 to save a dog trapped within. The fire subsequently turned out to be an arson, and two people were arrested after they lost the keys to their truck while committing the arson, left the truck at the scene of the crime, called RCMP to report the truck stolen and forgot there was evidence inside the truck linking them to the crime.

Warnings of a helium shortage sent Gazette reporters to a party supply store, which assured the community they had helium in plenty supply. Other stores were not as lucky and the helium

shortage continues worldwide today.

In August residents of a housing complex beside an abortion vigil complain the vigil is breaking their privacy rights and disrupting their lives. The RCMP get involved when there is a complaint of an altercation. No charges come from it and the vigil still continues.

HtO Thetis Lake Swim for MS on July 29 gave Susan Simmons a chance to spread the word about how she helped her MS symptoms through swimming and nutrition.

In September Terry Sterling shot and killed a bear on his Metchosin farm, something he didn’t take any pleasure in, but felt he had to after attempts to trap the bear were unsuccessful.

Colwood residents had their first look at

potential solutions to buying into the Capital Regional District’s sewage treatment plan. The city went on to decide to buy in for current users and projected users to 2020, with all residents footing the bill for future capacity.

On Aug. 4 a man ran into a gas station in

Langford with his hands bound, one shoe, a ripped shirt and cuts to his face. The man asked for scissors. When the RCMP arrived the man refused to tell them what had happened and they were forced to let him go.

View Royal resident Maureen Duffus was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her volunteer work with the archives.